There has been an intense debate, which is in the loop for years and has been raging back and forth regarding the deficiencies of a vegetarian diet versus the perils of a non-vegetarian one. This heated debate is both accurate as well as unfounded. Probably, that s the entire reason it is still a debate. In fact, if you look into the diet of both groups, you will be able to identify the fact that, there is a space for healthy living in both.

Vegetarian Diet

In a vegetarian diet, the food intake of a person is confined to a large variety of foods derived from plants along with milk and dairy. And, any form of meat and products derived from animals are completely avoided.

Pros

Vegetarians have been noted to consume lesser amount of proteins, but they do not suffer from problems related to a high protein diet, such as osteoporosis (characterized by brittle and weak bones) and kidney failure.
The diet includes high level of antioxidants such as vitamin E & C as well as carotene, which is available in vegetables and fruits.
Additionally, they consume less amount of saturated fats.
Cons

Deficiency of vitamin B12 is common amongst vegetarians, as it is mainly available in meat, eggs and fish. Deficiency of vitamin B12 can yield rare symptoms such as increased fatigue, shortness of breath and a temporary loss of body balance.
Lack of protein, as stated above, along with iron and zinc deficiency is also common. 
Symptoms of protein deficiency can be troublesome and include signs like

Sluggish metabolism
Loss of body muscles (as the body tries to derive the regular protein intake from your muscles, thus making them weak),
Trouble gaining or losing weight
Persistent fatigue
Longer healing time in case of wounds and injuries
Pain in joints
Drastic changes in blood sugar level that might result in diabetes
A weak immune system makes you vulnerable to all kinds of diseases.
Non-vegetarian Diet

A non-vegetarian diet includes all forms of plant foods as well as foods and by-products that are derived from animals, such as poultry, fish, meat, etc.

Pros 

Vitamin B12 is present in adequate level since they are derived from sources such as meat, eggs and fish. Adequate intake of proteins is never an issue for  non-vegetarians
Cons

Meat products are loaded with saturated fats, which increase the risk of heart diseases. Studies have shown that people consuming non-vegetarian diets:
Have shorter lifespan and are more vulnerable to chronic diseases.
Tend to develop diabetes, heart diseases and hypertension.
Usually non vegetarians eat less amount of vegetables and fruits than what is recommended.  
If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a Dietitian/Nutritionist.

Vegetarian vs Non Vegetarian Diet - Which is Better?

Nuts and dry fruits are probably the oldest and traditional superfoods which our mothers have diligently offered us for our good health. Packed with proteins, iron, magnesium, healthy fats, vitamin B and fiber, these nutritional powerhouses are a must in our diet, but only in a limited quantity. Yes, taking almonds, dates, cashews, pistachios, and walnuts in excess amount can lead to excessive body heat, giving rise to nasty pimples and rashes. Not more than 2 tablespoons of dry fruits are recommended in a day because of their sugar content, they can easily help to put on weight by adding excess calories.

But, how true is the claim or is it a myth? Let's find out.

Here is a brief overview of how overconsumption of dry fruit is detrimental to health:

Weight gain: Studies conducted by researchers over the years has revealed that it takes over 3500 calories to gain 1 pound of weight. However, consuming just 250 calories from dry fruits can result in over 2 pounds of weight in a single month. A sudden increase in weight can bring in other complications such as obesity, menstrual problems in women, high blood pressure, etc. It is therefore imperative to avoid excess intake of dry fruits. To ensure minimum intake of calories, we could focus on dates, apricot, cranberries, blueberries, etc.
Asthma: Sulphur dioxide is often used to process dry fruits. Studies revealed that this foul-smelling gas isn t very harmful when consumed in limited quantities. But, as per food safety experts, the permissible limit of Sulphur dioxide in humans should not be more than 20 mg per day as it can cause asthma, allergic reaction and skin rashes in an individual.
Gastrointestinal problems: Food items with high fiber content help in regular bowel movement and smooth blood flow. However, consuming too much fiber can lead to bloating, diarrhea, flatulence, cramps and constipation. This is exactly the case with dry fruits as well. They contain fiber and have the capacity to wreak havoc in the intestinal lining on overconsumption. Gradual and steady consumption of dry fruits over a period of time can mitigate this risk. 
Tooth decay: Dry fruits that are available in the market come with a thick coat of sugar so that they do not infuse moisture and stick to each other. This sugar significantly contributes to tooth decay. This is the reason why overconsumption of dry foot should be avoided.
Sugar crash: Most dry fruits have a high glycaemic index which can quickly surge blood sugar levels and spike energy levels. Therefore, patients suffering from high pressure should strictly refrain from dry fruits.
While the cons appear frightening, do not cross the nuts off the grocery list completely. Dry fruits when consumed under control, can be really helpful. So remember that moderation is the key. And in case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to all your questions!

Dry Fruits - 5 Reasons Why You Must Not Eat Too Many!

Piles are uncomfortable and painful. It can also be embarrassing and for this reason, many people delay their treatment. Piles usually affect middle aged people but at times, it can also affect younger men and women. Chronic constipation is one of the most common factors that can trigger piles. This is a condition where the veins near the anal opening in the rectum get inflamed. Any pressure that is put on the rectum puts pressure on these veins which may lead them pain and bleeding.

Luckily this is not a condition you need to live with and it can easily be treated with Ayurveda. Ayurveda approaches the treatment of this disease in multiple ways through dietary and lifestyle changes, medication, exercises and even massage therapy. It has negligible side effects and the potential to greatly improve the quality of your life even if you already have painful piles.

Dietary changes: Preventing constipation can prevent the development of piles. Hence, include plenty of fiber in your daily meals and cut down on starchy food. Adding sesame and mango seeds can also help prevent constipation. Fruits like jambul, papaya and dried figs are natural stool softners and should be eaten regularly.
Lifestyle changes: Along with eating the right food it is also essential to drink plenty of water. This helps the digestive system work smoothly. Avoid sitting in the same position for extended periods of time and only use soft, cushioned seats. Set aside at least an hour every morning for regular exercise such as walking, swimming, cycling or yoga. Certain yoga positions such as the downward facing dog and seated twist can make the process of eliminating waste easier. Scheduling a colon cleanse once in a while can also help treat piles.
Medication: Ayurvedic medication is based on herbs which have negligible side effects. Nagakesara is one such herb that is used to treat piles associated with bleeding. Haritaki and jimikand are two Ayurvedic herbs that can also help regulate your digestive system and treat piles. Abhayarishta is another herb that is often prescribed to treat piles. Kasiaditaila is an Ayurvedic medication that can be applied externally to help shrink piles and manage itching. It can also help relieve pain and bleeding. 
Though they have no major side effects, Ayurvedic medication should never be self-prescribed. Consult a qualified Ayurvedic doctor who will be able to prescribe the right medication in the right dosage for your problem.

How Ayurvedic Remedies Are Good For Piles?

Homeopathy is the best alternative to avoid surgery specially, in the cases of piles, fissure, fistula. There are many cases that were recommended operation but with homeopathy not only they were treated successfully but the surgery was also not done.

Piles or haemorrhoids cause severe bleeding in the anal region due to an abnormal enlargement of the rectal veins. The bleeding occurs as a result of a sudden increase in pressure in the rectal area. The haemorrhoids which tend to grow in the exterior part of the anus tends to be severe painful as compared to the internal haemorrhoids (which are invisible and grows in the interior portion of the rectal area).

The major causes of haemorrhoids are genetic factors, pelvic tumours, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, lack of regular physical exercise, undiagnosed and chronic gastric disorders like dysentery, diarrhoea or constipation and a significant increase in the weight of the uterus during pregnancy.

The sign of piles might include intense pain and irritation in the rectal area along with the presence of blood in the faeces and abnormal swelling of the affected area. If taken in a prescribed dosage, homeopathy can be very effective in curing piles. The most beneficial homeopathic preparations for piles are:

Nux vomica: This homeopathic preparation is useful in curing piles which display symptoms of extreme aggressiveness and intolerance to cold weather. If piles are caused due to excessive intake of spicy foods and alcohol or cigarettes, this homeopathic preparation can work as an effective cure.
Hamamelis: This preparation is useful to cure piles which show symptoms of blood in the faeces along with a sensation of discomfort and contusion.
Ratanhia: This preparation provides a remedy for severely painful hemorrhoids (which causes complications during excretion). Symptoms include severe pain which stays for several hours after excretion along with a burning sensation. It may be relieved with the help of cold water.
Graphites: If you suffer from the symptoms of chronic constipation, frequent skin eruptions and recurrent instances of menstrual anomalies in females along with piles, this homeopathic medication can provide effective cure to you.
Aesculus Hippocastanum: This homeopathic preparation provides an effective remedy for non-bleeding hemorrhoids along with the symptoms of severe back pain and pain in the anal regions.
Arsenic Album: This homeopathic preparation can prove effective in curing piles with the symptoms of a burning sensation during any forms of physical movement. If the hemorrhoids bleed extensively and are bluish in color, this homeopathic preparation can be beneficial in such cases.

Homeopathic Treatment for Piles

Is Constipation the Only Cause of Piles? + It's Symptoms

Piles, which are also called hemorrhoids, refer to the swelling of the veins near the anus and rectum, which get irritated during bowel movements, causing pain and bleeding during stool motions. The veins near the rectum or the anus may rupture during strained bowel movements and thus, cause the blood to come out with the stool. This can be very painful for the patient and has a very disruptive effect on their lives.

Causes of Piles

There may be many causes for piles or hemorrhoids and the cause may vary from patient to patient. Let's have a look at a few of them.

Straining when passing a stool - This is by far the most common reason for piles and this is what causes the irritation on the veins or causes them to rupture

Chronic Constipation: People suffering from chronic constipation due to gastrointestinal problems may also suffer from piles due to putting pressure constantly to relieve themselves.

Lifting a heavy weight or doing strenuous work: This can also put physical stress on the anus or rectum and cause swollen veins, which may then rupture during the passage of stool.

Pregnancy - Pregnancy causes many hormonal changes in the body and the strain may also result in piles.

Symptoms of Piles

Some of the symptoms of piles or hemorrhoids are:

- Painful bowel movements, which hurt the rectum or the anus, accompanied by general tenderness within the region
- Bleeding or seeping of a bright red color blood onto the stool on the toilet or even on toilet paper
- Itching in the anal areas, which may be continuous or intermittent
- A swelling or lump near the anus, which is painful
- A mucus-like discharge from the anus

There may be one or more factors present in particular cases and if there is a pain in the rectal area, it is best to get it checked out by a doctor as soon as possible.

If you would like to consult with me privately, please click on 'Consult'.

Is Constipation the Only Cause of Piles? + It's Symptoms

Screening for cancer of the colon or large intestine and rectum is a proven way of saving a person from the impacts of colorectal diseases. This is partly because colon cancer is something that can be prevented if detected at an early stage and the polyps which may advance to cancer are removed properly. Thus if you are turning 50 soon, be prepared to present yourself for a screening colonoscopy that will help you ensure good health and well-being. It may sound uncanny, but do you know that 50,000 people across the world die from colorectal cancer every year, and it is ranked second in terms of cancer-centric deaths.

Understanding the importance of having colonoscopy
You may wonder how a painful, invasive, embarrassing, uncomfortable and time-consuming health test may be called a present. There are reasons enough. A screening colonoscopy is able to expose a cancerous tumour that's presently under way and cast light on the chances and risk factors that may precede it. When you choose to intervene early, you have the power to nip those risks at their budding stage, much before those malicious cells become malignant.

Spreading of the colorectal cancer
Your large intestine is really a big and last organ of the gastrointestinal system where the small intestine discontinues. Its primary function is to remove the water out of the leftover solids of digestion and get rid of them in the form of stool. Cancer may start to develop anywhere within the tube that expands 5 feet long and squares the vacant area of the abdomen. The large intestine expands up towards the right side, i.e. the ascending colon and then turns left through the liver, i.e., the transverse colon, bending down right at the spleen on its left, i.e. descending colon and loops to the middle, i.e., the sigmoid colon before it runs across the rectum and ends at the anus.

People who need a colonoscopy
To simplify matters, it can be said that all adults are at a potential risk of the colorectal cancer, including those people who lead a healthy life. But some people are at a higher risk. Those individuals have a specific gene mutation that predisposes them to develop into numerous polyps. The risk is also high with people who are first-degree relatives of a person diagnosed with cancer before the age of 50. People with Ulcerative colitis, various types of inflammatory bowel diseases and Crohn's disease are also at a higher risk.

Colorectal cancer is a serious ailment and screening colonoscopy is a feasible means of detecting any polyps that may be cancerous in the future. Speak with a reputed gastroenterologist today to stay ahead of the disease.

When Should You Start Having Colonoscopies?

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